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White Buffalo Racing Adds Online Shopping To Website

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From a press release issued by White Buffalo Racing:

White Buffalo Racing is launching our new online shop to better help our customers shop online for the products they want. Discount pricing is available to registered customers of White Buffalo Racing. The discount prices can be viewed after a registered customer logs onto the online shop. To register, go to the link for the new online shop on our website www.whitebuffaloracing.com and follow the easy steps for registration. Please allow 30 minutes after you register to re-login so the proper fields can be filled for your discount pricing. Many items are now on the shop, and more are added daily. Please check back frequently for new products.

Turbocharged Monster Wins Round Three Of Ducati Monster Challenge In Long Beach, California

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From a press release issued by Ducati North America:

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA IMS SHOW BRINGS OUT THE BEST MONSTER CHALLENGE ENTRANTS TO DATE

Each round of the Monster Challenge has increased the competitive level and the Long Beach show demonstrated some of the best Ducati Monsters yet.

Cupertino, CA – December 14th, 2004 – The search for the coolest Monster in North America continued with round three at Cycle World’s Southern California motorcycle show. The competition was the fiercest yet, with amazing Monsters from Southern California, Arizona, and Nevada. Also on display at this show was the Desmo Chopper by MotoCreations. This bike drew huge crowds of Ducatisti, Harley, and other riders.

All the entrants at Long Beach had excellent Monsters, making judging a difficult challenge. So, Ducati recruited some professionals for the task. The celebrity panel of judges included Eric Bostrom from the Parts Unlimited Ducati Austin AMA team, Doug Polen the 2-time World Superbike Champion, Brian Catterson of Cycle World, Jeff Buchanan of Robb Report Motorcycling, and Larry Williams of Moto-Euro Magazine.

The experts awarded 1st place to Bill Johnson from Mesa, Arizona for his turbocharged 1996 Monster 900. Bill’s bike makes 112 HP at the rear wheel with the forced induction system. Aside from the chrome appearance, the bike features a ceramic coated spaghetti pipe exhaust manifold which is a work of art itself. When asked what the favorite part of his Monster was, Bill said, “I’m torn between the turbocharger system or the chrome finish.” This is exactly what the judges concluded as well.



2nd place went to Las Vegas resident, Keith Myers and his 1999 Ducati Monster 900S. Keith’s bike was visually stunning and had the performance to back it up. With the Ferracci 12:1 pistons, 39mm flatside carbs, and a host of other goodies, Keith says he has no trouble keeping up with just about any other bike on the road. And he rides this beautiful machine regularly too; it is not a trailer queen.

Alvin Egerer’s “Terminator” 1995 Monster 900 placed third in the show. Alvin’s bike has already graced the pages of magazines with its unique tail section and paintwork. The 916 swingarm and forks are a nice touch too.

Ultimately, the fans loved the vintage look of John Pace’s Monster, awarding it the “People’s Choice” for Long Beach. John’s bike brought people back to the early days of Ducati with this historic paint scheme and custom under seat exhaust. But looks aren’t all that’s important, the bike also has a 944cc kit and 12:1 compression pistons.

WSMC Racer Paulson’s Bar To Host Charity Event To Benefit Military Families

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From a press release issued by Premier Marketing:

Local Attorney and Bikers Support Our Troops for the Holidays

Temecula CA – Personal Injury Attorney, Timothy C. Kuzelka and local bikers team up to make this holiday season a little brighter for children who have a parent involved in Iraqi Freedom overseas. Bikers are giving cash donations to purchase gifts for the families from Camp Pendleton that are in need.

A special event will be held on December 18 at 11 a.m. to bring the families and the bikers together to celebrate the season with Santa, snow, and activities to cheer their spirits. Each child will visit with Santa and have their picture taken. The photo will be sent to their parent overseas with warm holiday wishes. The bikers will meet the families and have an opportunity to watch them receive their gifts.

Personal Injury Attorney, Timothy C. Kuzelka, sponsor of this event says, “Our Troops are fighting for us right now. They need our support, especially during the holidays. This is the least we can do for them.” Hell’s Kitchen, located on Ortega Highway in Lake Elsinore, is providing the facility and lunch for the contributors and soldiers’ families.

If you would like to show your appreciation to families of our soldiers by participating in this event, please call Hell’s Kitchen at (951) 609-3390. Each gift of $10 to $49 will receive a Hell’s Kitchen ride pin, each $50 contributor will receive a meal at the event, a commemorative t-shirt, and a Hell’s Kitchen ride pin. All donations are greatly appreciated.


Editorial Note: Hell’s Kitchen is owned by WSMC racer Tyler Paulson.

Recent Birth: William Aidan Shupak

CMRA racer Will Shupak and wife Angela had a son, William Aidan Shupak, on November 22, 2004 in Alexandria, Louisiana.

Parts Unlimited Named ‘Proud Sponsor’ Of U.S.GP At Laguna Seca

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From a press release issued by Parts Unlimited:

PARTS UNLIMITED NAMED PROUD SPONSOR OF 2005 RED BULL U.S. GRAND PRIX

Janesville, Wisconsin (December 14, 2004) Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca and Dorna Sports, the Spanish-based company that holds the commercial and TV rights to the FIM MotoGP World Championships, has announced that Parts Unlimited has been named Proud Sponsor of the 2005 Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix July 8-10, 2005.

“We are very excited to be involved in bringing MotoGP, the world’s premier form of motorcycle roadrace competition, back to America,” said Jeff Fox, President and CEO of Parts Unlimited. “Our involvement will surely enhance the Parts Unlimited brand image from exposure both on-site and through the worldwide television coverage of the event. It will be a perfect marriage with the ‘We Support The Sport’ campaign that we conduct in all major aspects of motorcycle racing in the United States. We look forward to an exciting weekend of action that will include dealer hospitality viewing from the Turn Five Chalet.”

The 500cc Grand Prix World Championship raced at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca from 1988 to 1994. The series has since converted to the ever-growing and exciting MotoGP class as the premier FIM Grand Prix World Championship series and the 2005 Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix will mark the debut of this class in the United States.

Parts Unlimited, the world’s largest distributor of aftermarket motorcycle parts and accessories, is headquartered in Janesville, Wisconsin.

For Tickets and information call Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca at 1-800-327-SECA or 1-831-648-5111.

More Race Weekends For CRA In 2005

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From a press release issued by CRA:

CRA Announces 2005 Racing Schedule:

CRA has finalized the 2005 racing schedule! CRA has expanded the race schedule from 5 to 7 race weekends, racing at both Brainerd International Raceway (BIR) and Mid-America Motorplex (MAM).

Tentative Race Dates for 2005:

April 29,30 – May 1 – BIR
May 20,21,22 – MAM
June 17,18,19 – BIR
July 15,16,17 – BIR
August 19,20,21 – BIR
September 9,10,11 – BIR
October 14,15,16 – MAM

New Rider’s Schools Tentative Dates for 2005:

March 13 – New Rider School, Classroom
April 29 – New Rider School, On-track
May 20 – New Rider School, On-track
June 17 – New Rider School, On-track
July 15 – New Rider School, On-track

If you would like more information, contact the CRA:

CRA Hotline: (612) 332-4070
CRA Website: www.cra-mn.com

Rain Hinders First Day Of World Superbike, Supersport Test At Valencia

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From a press release issued by Scuderia Caracchi Ducati

A DELUGE AGAINST THE VALENCIA’S TEST

Atrocious weather conditions welcomed this morning in Valencia circuit the riders for a two-day test organized for the 2005 World Supersport and Superbike teams. Later, in the middle of the day, the rain attenuated until to stop, allowing the bikes to practice, but the track remained wet and didn’t allow to let the rain tyres or, in the best moment, the intermediate tyres.

Engaged also the Scuderia Caracchi Ducati with both his riders, Lorenzo Lanzi on the 999RS Superbike and Gianluca Nannelli on the 749R Supersport.

“The track was very wet and didn’t allow us to complete al the working program we’ve scheduled for today.” – said Lorenzo Lanzi at the end of the day – “Actually we could just to look for a good setting for wet conditions if when we’ll be here next April to race the Spanish round of the Championship it will rain. I covered a total of about forty laps, with a quickest laptime in 1:52.2 using rain tyres. Unfortunately when the track dried a little bit and we could use the intermediate tyres I’ve done a crash without any consequence, but I must stop in the pit when the other riders were able to run. We hope to do something better tomorrow, but the weather forecast give us any hope.”

Gianluca Nannelli too crashed at the beginning of the practices, by luck any consequence also for him.

“What a pity for this crash, we lost a bit of precious testing time.” – regrets Gianluca – “The long developing program scheduled for today has been ruined by the rain. The crash has been very silly: we decided to start today’s test using the final set up found in the last test sessions here in Valencia, so the rear suspension was quite hard and just I opened a bit the throttle at the first corner, at the end of finish line, the bike slipped and throw me away. However we tested several different setting, suspensions and tyres. My best laptime has been 1:50.8 using the intermediate tyres, but we have to test several different solutions.”

This test session will end tomorrow, Tuesday December 14.

Ducati Desmo Challenge Series Announced

0

From a press release issued by Ducati:

GET READY FOR THE DUCATI DESMO CHALLENGE

Ducati Motor Holding, with the cooperation of Techna and Mondo Ducati magazine, is to organise a one-make championship called the “Ducati Desmo Challenge”.

This new Ducati series planned for the coming 2005 season, will be run over four dates and offer exciting races on the track as well as a number of entertaining activities for the public. The event is open to all riders from European Union countries who possess a CE racing licence issued by their national federation. (Riders from outside Italy require permission from their national federation).

The Ducati Desmo Challenge, which will run from April until July 2005, will present a new program consisting of three different categories in which riders will compete at four of Italy’s top circuits.

The categories are:
Ducati 2-valve (Open regulations)
Ducati 4-valve (Open regulations)
999 (Superstock regulations – only 999S 2004/05 and 999 2005 base model allowed)
In the first two categories, the only requirement is that competitors use a Ducati Engine, therefore giving participants total freedom regarding the preparation of the motorcycle.

The Ducati Desmo Challenge has another unique feature: the event will take place on circuits reserved exclusively by Ducati. This will enable the races to take place in total freedom, giving the maximum emphasis to the needs of the riders, offering a paddock full of activities and initiatives dedicated to all bikers. Spectators will have the opportunity to try out the entire 2005 Ducati model range on a special circuit.

In addition, the first day of each of the four races of the Ducati Desmo Challenge will be dedicated to free practice, which will also be open to all those who do not possess a Ducati motorcycle. Qualifying, warm-ups and the actual races will all take place on the second day.

Another new feature will be the “gran finale”, which will take place at a Ducati European event at the end of July 2005, and where the Ducati Desmo Challenge prize-giving ceremony will also be held.

The calendar, technical and sporting regulations (including information on kits allowed) and the final prize-money jackpot will be released soon.

Several California Speedway Staffers Receive Promotions

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From a press release issued by California Speedway:

CALIFORNIA SPEEDWAY ANNOUNCES STAFF PROMOTIONS AND ENHANCEMENTS OF TICKETING DEPARTMENT

FONTANA, Calif. – California Speedway President Bill Miller today announced the appointment of two Senior Directors and three other staff promotions, as well as a restructuring of the ticketing department as the speedway prepares for the start of the 2005 racing season in late February with the first of two NASCAR Weekends, featuring the Auto Club 500 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series race on Sunday, February 27.

Department directors David Allen and Dennis Bickmeier were promoted to the positions of Senior Director of Corporate Sales and Marketing and Senior Director of Communications, respectively. In addition, Fritz Maskrey was promoted to Director of Corporate Sales and Marketing, while Otis Greer was named Corporate Sales Manager and Juliet Marshall was named Hospitality Services Coordinator.

“We have developed a great team here at California Speedway, and these new promotions, under the direction of Roger Curtis our Vice President of Sales and Marketing, will help guide us into the future,” said Miller. “The talent and experience of these individuals will not only be displayed within their respective departments but throughout California Speedway and all of motorsports as the speedway remains on the cutting edge of event promotion and fan experience initiatives.”

Allen, 32, of Corona, Calif., began his career at California Speedway in early 1999. Most recently, he held the title of Director of Corporate Sales, and prior to that was the Marketing Manager. Allen oversees all day-to-day operations of the Corporate Sales and Marketing Department, including corporate sponsorships, luxury suite, hospitality and display sales. A graduate of Colorado State University with a degree in Communications, Allen came to California Speedway from Mazda Raceway at Laguna Seca. He has also held positions with Anheuser-Busch and Pylant Motorsports, a Northern California based sprint car team.

Bickmeier, 38, who resides in Anaheim Hills, Calif., headed up the speedway’s Public Relations Department, which is being renamed the Communications Department and will now include Advertising and Promotions under its umbrella. A native Ohioan, Bickmeier is in his sixth year with the speedway, joining the team from the Anaheim Angels and the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim. He has also held positions locally with the Big West Conference, the Los Angeles Rams and the Los Angeles Dodgers. Bickmeier is a graduate of the Scripps School of Journalism at Ohio University and holds a Master’s Degree in Sports Administration from Ohio University. He also serves as an adjunct faculty member in Sports Administration at the University of San Francisco’s Los Angeles Campus.

Maskrey, 27, takes over as the Director of Corporate Sales and Marketing with the primary focus of developing fully integrated corporate partnerships for the speedway’s six major racing weekends. A resident of Huntington Beach, Calif., Maskrey is also involved in the sale of the speedway’s luxury suites, as well as corporate hospitality and displays. A graduate of Azusa Pacific University with a degree in Business Administration, Maskrey came to California Speedway in 2000 from Mazda Raceway at Laguna Seca. He has held positions of Account Executive and Marketing Manager at the speedway prior to his new appointment.

Greer, 38, resides in Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., and has served the last five years as the speedway’s Hospitality Manager. In his new role, Greer will focus on luxury suite and hospitality sales, as well as corporate sponsorship sales. A graduate of the University of California, Riverside, he came to California Speedway from UCR, where he served as an Outreach Counselor for the university. Greer also holds a Master’s Degree in Social Sciences from California State University, San Bernardino. He began his relationship with California Speedway in 1997 as a volunteer Hospitality Ambassador.

Marshall, 36, has been a member of the speedway’s administrative team since 2002, serving as an assistant in the Sales and Marketing Department. A resident of Fontana, Calif., Marshall will work directly with the speedway’s hospitality clients, coordinating their on-site hospitality needs. A graduate of Marymount College, she attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo where she studied Social Sciences and was employed as an Accounting Manager at Color Reflections Digital Imaging in Las Vegas before joining the speedway. She began her association with California Speedway in 1997 as a volunteer in the Photo Center.

In addition to the staff promotions, the speedway’s ticketing department has been reorganized under the guidance of Director of Ticket Operations Kara McMichael. The department will continue to handle all box office and ticketing operations but will now have additional consumer sales responsibilities dedicated to further enhancing the overall customer sales and service for speedway guests.

California Speedway is owned by International Speedway Corporation, a leading promoter of motorsports activities in the United States, currently promoting more than 100 events annually. For more information, visit the company’s website at www.iscmotorsports.com.

Tickets for all of California Speedway’s 2005 events are on sale at 1-800-944-RACE (7223) or www.californiaspeedway.com. The February 25-27 NASCAR Tripleheader Weekend is right around the corner with the American Racing Wheels 200 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race scheduled under the lights for Friday, February 25, followed by the NASCAR Busch Series race on Saturday and Auto Club 500 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series race on Sunday.

AHRMA To Host Triumph Thruxton Cup

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From a press release issued by Triumph:

Triumph Motorcycles and AHRMA announce 2005 Thruxton Cup Challenge Series

Triumph Motorcycles (America) Ltd. and AHRMA create new road racing series featuring the Triumph Thruxton 900.

NEWNAN, Georgia – Triumph Motorcycles (America) Ltd., is proud to announce a new partnership with the American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association. Kicking off the 2005 season with an inaugural race at Carolina Motorsports Park, Kershaw, SC, on March 3, 2005, The Thruxton Challenge will be a regular feature at all AHRMA Historic Cup Roadrace Series events, including March 7-8 at Daytona International Speedway.

The Triumph Thruxton 900 is a modern interpretation of the classic café racers of the past. Drawing on Triumph’s steep racing heritage, the motorcycle and its classic silhouette reach back to the evolution of purpose-built sport bikes and the era of the café racer. With its clip-on handlebars and rear-set foot pegs, the Thruxton 900 is perfectly suited to spec class road racing. The Thruxton features an 865cc air-cooled twin-cylinder power plant. Peak power output of 69hp is delivered at 7,250rpm and peak torque of 53 ft. lbs. arrives at 5,750rpm. The precisely crafted chassis inspires confidence with preload-adjustable 41mm telescopic forks, sharp steering geometry, and a fully floating 320mm front disc with twin-piston brake caliper in a tubular steel twin-cradle frame.

The Thruxton Challenge is sure to inspire competitors and spectators alike. Triumph Motorcycles will be offering a special rebate program for series competitors. AHRMA license holders purchasing a new Thruxton 900 for this race series will receive an $800 rebate directly from Triumph.

Get ready for close racing action and a truly unique sound as the Thruxton Series gets underway! For more information on this series, please contact Triumph Motorcycles (America), Ltd. at [email protected] or visit AHRMA’s website at www.ahrma.org.

Triumph Motorcycles (America) Ltd., is a wholly owned subsidiary of Triumph Motorcycles, Ltd, a manufacturer of Triumph motorcycles and accessories. Triumph Motorcycles (America) Ltd., is located in Newnan, GA, and services the Triumph dealer organization throughout the United States, Canada and Latin America.

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association is a member-owned nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the sport of historic motorcycle racing for the enjoyment of riders and spectators. AHRMA is a chartered promoter of the American Motorcyclist Association and conducts amateur activities.


White Buffalo Racing Adds Online Shopping To Website

From a press release issued by White Buffalo Racing:

White Buffalo Racing is launching our new online shop to better help our customers shop online for the products they want. Discount pricing is available to registered customers of White Buffalo Racing. The discount prices can be viewed after a registered customer logs onto the online shop. To register, go to the link for the new online shop on our website www.whitebuffaloracing.com and follow the easy steps for registration. Please allow 30 minutes after you register to re-login so the proper fields can be filled for your discount pricing. Many items are now on the shop, and more are added daily. Please check back frequently for new products.

Turbocharged Monster Wins Round Three Of Ducati Monster Challenge In Long Beach, California

From a press release issued by Ducati North America:

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA IMS SHOW BRINGS OUT THE BEST MONSTER CHALLENGE ENTRANTS TO DATE

Each round of the Monster Challenge has increased the competitive level and the Long Beach show demonstrated some of the best Ducati Monsters yet.

Cupertino, CA – December 14th, 2004 – The search for the coolest Monster in North America continued with round three at Cycle World’s Southern California motorcycle show. The competition was the fiercest yet, with amazing Monsters from Southern California, Arizona, and Nevada. Also on display at this show was the Desmo Chopper by MotoCreations. This bike drew huge crowds of Ducatisti, Harley, and other riders.

All the entrants at Long Beach had excellent Monsters, making judging a difficult challenge. So, Ducati recruited some professionals for the task. The celebrity panel of judges included Eric Bostrom from the Parts Unlimited Ducati Austin AMA team, Doug Polen the 2-time World Superbike Champion, Brian Catterson of Cycle World, Jeff Buchanan of Robb Report Motorcycling, and Larry Williams of Moto-Euro Magazine.

The experts awarded 1st place to Bill Johnson from Mesa, Arizona for his turbocharged 1996 Monster 900. Bill’s bike makes 112 HP at the rear wheel with the forced induction system. Aside from the chrome appearance, the bike features a ceramic coated spaghetti pipe exhaust manifold which is a work of art itself. When asked what the favorite part of his Monster was, Bill said, “I’m torn between the turbocharger system or the chrome finish.” This is exactly what the judges concluded as well.



2nd place went to Las Vegas resident, Keith Myers and his 1999 Ducati Monster 900S. Keith’s bike was visually stunning and had the performance to back it up. With the Ferracci 12:1 pistons, 39mm flatside carbs, and a host of other goodies, Keith says he has no trouble keeping up with just about any other bike on the road. And he rides this beautiful machine regularly too; it is not a trailer queen.

Alvin Egerer’s “Terminator” 1995 Monster 900 placed third in the show. Alvin’s bike has already graced the pages of magazines with its unique tail section and paintwork. The 916 swingarm and forks are a nice touch too.

Ultimately, the fans loved the vintage look of John Pace’s Monster, awarding it the “People’s Choice” for Long Beach. John’s bike brought people back to the early days of Ducati with this historic paint scheme and custom under seat exhaust. But looks aren’t all that’s important, the bike also has a 944cc kit and 12:1 compression pistons.

WSMC Racer Paulson’s Bar To Host Charity Event To Benefit Military Families

From a press release issued by Premier Marketing:

Local Attorney and Bikers Support Our Troops for the Holidays

Temecula CA – Personal Injury Attorney, Timothy C. Kuzelka and local bikers team up to make this holiday season a little brighter for children who have a parent involved in Iraqi Freedom overseas. Bikers are giving cash donations to purchase gifts for the families from Camp Pendleton that are in need.

A special event will be held on December 18 at 11 a.m. to bring the families and the bikers together to celebrate the season with Santa, snow, and activities to cheer their spirits. Each child will visit with Santa and have their picture taken. The photo will be sent to their parent overseas with warm holiday wishes. The bikers will meet the families and have an opportunity to watch them receive their gifts.

Personal Injury Attorney, Timothy C. Kuzelka, sponsor of this event says, “Our Troops are fighting for us right now. They need our support, especially during the holidays. This is the least we can do for them.” Hell’s Kitchen, located on Ortega Highway in Lake Elsinore, is providing the facility and lunch for the contributors and soldiers’ families.

If you would like to show your appreciation to families of our soldiers by participating in this event, please call Hell’s Kitchen at (951) 609-3390. Each gift of $10 to $49 will receive a Hell’s Kitchen ride pin, each $50 contributor will receive a meal at the event, a commemorative t-shirt, and a Hell’s Kitchen ride pin. All donations are greatly appreciated.


Editorial Note: Hell’s Kitchen is owned by WSMC racer Tyler Paulson.

Recent Birth: William Aidan Shupak

CMRA racer Will Shupak and wife Angela had a son, William Aidan Shupak, on November 22, 2004 in Alexandria, Louisiana.

Parts Unlimited Named ‘Proud Sponsor’ Of U.S.GP At Laguna Seca

From a press release issued by Parts Unlimited:

PARTS UNLIMITED NAMED PROUD SPONSOR OF 2005 RED BULL U.S. GRAND PRIX

Janesville, Wisconsin (December 14, 2004) Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca and Dorna Sports, the Spanish-based company that holds the commercial and TV rights to the FIM MotoGP World Championships, has announced that Parts Unlimited has been named Proud Sponsor of the 2005 Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix July 8-10, 2005.

“We are very excited to be involved in bringing MotoGP, the world’s premier form of motorcycle roadrace competition, back to America,” said Jeff Fox, President and CEO of Parts Unlimited. “Our involvement will surely enhance the Parts Unlimited brand image from exposure both on-site and through the worldwide television coverage of the event. It will be a perfect marriage with the ‘We Support The Sport’ campaign that we conduct in all major aspects of motorcycle racing in the United States. We look forward to an exciting weekend of action that will include dealer hospitality viewing from the Turn Five Chalet.”

The 500cc Grand Prix World Championship raced at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca from 1988 to 1994. The series has since converted to the ever-growing and exciting MotoGP class as the premier FIM Grand Prix World Championship series and the 2005 Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix will mark the debut of this class in the United States.

Parts Unlimited, the world’s largest distributor of aftermarket motorcycle parts and accessories, is headquartered in Janesville, Wisconsin.

For Tickets and information call Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca at 1-800-327-SECA or 1-831-648-5111.

More Race Weekends For CRA In 2005

From a press release issued by CRA:

CRA Announces 2005 Racing Schedule:

CRA has finalized the 2005 racing schedule! CRA has expanded the race schedule from 5 to 7 race weekends, racing at both Brainerd International Raceway (BIR) and Mid-America Motorplex (MAM).

Tentative Race Dates for 2005:

April 29,30 – May 1 – BIR
May 20,21,22 – MAM
June 17,18,19 – BIR
July 15,16,17 – BIR
August 19,20,21 – BIR
September 9,10,11 – BIR
October 14,15,16 – MAM

New Rider’s Schools Tentative Dates for 2005:

March 13 – New Rider School, Classroom
April 29 – New Rider School, On-track
May 20 – New Rider School, On-track
June 17 – New Rider School, On-track
July 15 – New Rider School, On-track

If you would like more information, contact the CRA:

CRA Hotline: (612) 332-4070
CRA Website: www.cra-mn.com

Rain Hinders First Day Of World Superbike, Supersport Test At Valencia

From a press release issued by Scuderia Caracchi Ducati

A DELUGE AGAINST THE VALENCIA’S TEST

Atrocious weather conditions welcomed this morning in Valencia circuit the riders for a two-day test organized for the 2005 World Supersport and Superbike teams. Later, in the middle of the day, the rain attenuated until to stop, allowing the bikes to practice, but the track remained wet and didn’t allow to let the rain tyres or, in the best moment, the intermediate tyres.

Engaged also the Scuderia Caracchi Ducati with both his riders, Lorenzo Lanzi on the 999RS Superbike and Gianluca Nannelli on the 749R Supersport.

“The track was very wet and didn’t allow us to complete al the working program we’ve scheduled for today.” – said Lorenzo Lanzi at the end of the day – “Actually we could just to look for a good setting for wet conditions if when we’ll be here next April to race the Spanish round of the Championship it will rain. I covered a total of about forty laps, with a quickest laptime in 1:52.2 using rain tyres. Unfortunately when the track dried a little bit and we could use the intermediate tyres I’ve done a crash without any consequence, but I must stop in the pit when the other riders were able to run. We hope to do something better tomorrow, but the weather forecast give us any hope.”

Gianluca Nannelli too crashed at the beginning of the practices, by luck any consequence also for him.

“What a pity for this crash, we lost a bit of precious testing time.” – regrets Gianluca – “The long developing program scheduled for today has been ruined by the rain. The crash has been very silly: we decided to start today’s test using the final set up found in the last test sessions here in Valencia, so the rear suspension was quite hard and just I opened a bit the throttle at the first corner, at the end of finish line, the bike slipped and throw me away. However we tested several different setting, suspensions and tyres. My best laptime has been 1:50.8 using the intermediate tyres, but we have to test several different solutions.”

This test session will end tomorrow, Tuesday December 14.

Ducati Desmo Challenge Series Announced

From a press release issued by Ducati:

GET READY FOR THE DUCATI DESMO CHALLENGE

Ducati Motor Holding, with the cooperation of Techna and Mondo Ducati magazine, is to organise a one-make championship called the “Ducati Desmo Challenge”.

This new Ducati series planned for the coming 2005 season, will be run over four dates and offer exciting races on the track as well as a number of entertaining activities for the public. The event is open to all riders from European Union countries who possess a CE racing licence issued by their national federation. (Riders from outside Italy require permission from their national federation).

The Ducati Desmo Challenge, which will run from April until July 2005, will present a new program consisting of three different categories in which riders will compete at four of Italy’s top circuits.

The categories are:
Ducati 2-valve (Open regulations)
Ducati 4-valve (Open regulations)
999 (Superstock regulations – only 999S 2004/05 and 999 2005 base model allowed)
In the first two categories, the only requirement is that competitors use a Ducati Engine, therefore giving participants total freedom regarding the preparation of the motorcycle.

The Ducati Desmo Challenge has another unique feature: the event will take place on circuits reserved exclusively by Ducati. This will enable the races to take place in total freedom, giving the maximum emphasis to the needs of the riders, offering a paddock full of activities and initiatives dedicated to all bikers. Spectators will have the opportunity to try out the entire 2005 Ducati model range on a special circuit.

In addition, the first day of each of the four races of the Ducati Desmo Challenge will be dedicated to free practice, which will also be open to all those who do not possess a Ducati motorcycle. Qualifying, warm-ups and the actual races will all take place on the second day.

Another new feature will be the “gran finale”, which will take place at a Ducati European event at the end of July 2005, and where the Ducati Desmo Challenge prize-giving ceremony will also be held.

The calendar, technical and sporting regulations (including information on kits allowed) and the final prize-money jackpot will be released soon.

Several California Speedway Staffers Receive Promotions

From a press release issued by California Speedway:

CALIFORNIA SPEEDWAY ANNOUNCES STAFF PROMOTIONS AND ENHANCEMENTS OF TICKETING DEPARTMENT

FONTANA, Calif. – California Speedway President Bill Miller today announced the appointment of two Senior Directors and three other staff promotions, as well as a restructuring of the ticketing department as the speedway prepares for the start of the 2005 racing season in late February with the first of two NASCAR Weekends, featuring the Auto Club 500 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series race on Sunday, February 27.

Department directors David Allen and Dennis Bickmeier were promoted to the positions of Senior Director of Corporate Sales and Marketing and Senior Director of Communications, respectively. In addition, Fritz Maskrey was promoted to Director of Corporate Sales and Marketing, while Otis Greer was named Corporate Sales Manager and Juliet Marshall was named Hospitality Services Coordinator.

“We have developed a great team here at California Speedway, and these new promotions, under the direction of Roger Curtis our Vice President of Sales and Marketing, will help guide us into the future,” said Miller. “The talent and experience of these individuals will not only be displayed within their respective departments but throughout California Speedway and all of motorsports as the speedway remains on the cutting edge of event promotion and fan experience initiatives.”

Allen, 32, of Corona, Calif., began his career at California Speedway in early 1999. Most recently, he held the title of Director of Corporate Sales, and prior to that was the Marketing Manager. Allen oversees all day-to-day operations of the Corporate Sales and Marketing Department, including corporate sponsorships, luxury suite, hospitality and display sales. A graduate of Colorado State University with a degree in Communications, Allen came to California Speedway from Mazda Raceway at Laguna Seca. He has also held positions with Anheuser-Busch and Pylant Motorsports, a Northern California based sprint car team.

Bickmeier, 38, who resides in Anaheim Hills, Calif., headed up the speedway’s Public Relations Department, which is being renamed the Communications Department and will now include Advertising and Promotions under its umbrella. A native Ohioan, Bickmeier is in his sixth year with the speedway, joining the team from the Anaheim Angels and the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim. He has also held positions locally with the Big West Conference, the Los Angeles Rams and the Los Angeles Dodgers. Bickmeier is a graduate of the Scripps School of Journalism at Ohio University and holds a Master’s Degree in Sports Administration from Ohio University. He also serves as an adjunct faculty member in Sports Administration at the University of San Francisco’s Los Angeles Campus.

Maskrey, 27, takes over as the Director of Corporate Sales and Marketing with the primary focus of developing fully integrated corporate partnerships for the speedway’s six major racing weekends. A resident of Huntington Beach, Calif., Maskrey is also involved in the sale of the speedway’s luxury suites, as well as corporate hospitality and displays. A graduate of Azusa Pacific University with a degree in Business Administration, Maskrey came to California Speedway in 2000 from Mazda Raceway at Laguna Seca. He has held positions of Account Executive and Marketing Manager at the speedway prior to his new appointment.

Greer, 38, resides in Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., and has served the last five years as the speedway’s Hospitality Manager. In his new role, Greer will focus on luxury suite and hospitality sales, as well as corporate sponsorship sales. A graduate of the University of California, Riverside, he came to California Speedway from UCR, where he served as an Outreach Counselor for the university. Greer also holds a Master’s Degree in Social Sciences from California State University, San Bernardino. He began his relationship with California Speedway in 1997 as a volunteer Hospitality Ambassador.

Marshall, 36, has been a member of the speedway’s administrative team since 2002, serving as an assistant in the Sales and Marketing Department. A resident of Fontana, Calif., Marshall will work directly with the speedway’s hospitality clients, coordinating their on-site hospitality needs. A graduate of Marymount College, she attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo where she studied Social Sciences and was employed as an Accounting Manager at Color Reflections Digital Imaging in Las Vegas before joining the speedway. She began her association with California Speedway in 1997 as a volunteer in the Photo Center.

In addition to the staff promotions, the speedway’s ticketing department has been reorganized under the guidance of Director of Ticket Operations Kara McMichael. The department will continue to handle all box office and ticketing operations but will now have additional consumer sales responsibilities dedicated to further enhancing the overall customer sales and service for speedway guests.

California Speedway is owned by International Speedway Corporation, a leading promoter of motorsports activities in the United States, currently promoting more than 100 events annually. For more information, visit the company’s website at www.iscmotorsports.com.

Tickets for all of California Speedway’s 2005 events are on sale at 1-800-944-RACE (7223) or www.californiaspeedway.com. The February 25-27 NASCAR Tripleheader Weekend is right around the corner with the American Racing Wheels 200 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race scheduled under the lights for Friday, February 25, followed by the NASCAR Busch Series race on Saturday and Auto Club 500 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series race on Sunday.

AHRMA To Host Triumph Thruxton Cup

From a press release issued by Triumph:

Triumph Motorcycles and AHRMA announce 2005 Thruxton Cup Challenge Series

Triumph Motorcycles (America) Ltd. and AHRMA create new road racing series featuring the Triumph Thruxton 900.

NEWNAN, Georgia – Triumph Motorcycles (America) Ltd., is proud to announce a new partnership with the American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association. Kicking off the 2005 season with an inaugural race at Carolina Motorsports Park, Kershaw, SC, on March 3, 2005, The Thruxton Challenge will be a regular feature at all AHRMA Historic Cup Roadrace Series events, including March 7-8 at Daytona International Speedway.

The Triumph Thruxton 900 is a modern interpretation of the classic café racers of the past. Drawing on Triumph’s steep racing heritage, the motorcycle and its classic silhouette reach back to the evolution of purpose-built sport bikes and the era of the café racer. With its clip-on handlebars and rear-set foot pegs, the Thruxton 900 is perfectly suited to spec class road racing. The Thruxton features an 865cc air-cooled twin-cylinder power plant. Peak power output of 69hp is delivered at 7,250rpm and peak torque of 53 ft. lbs. arrives at 5,750rpm. The precisely crafted chassis inspires confidence with preload-adjustable 41mm telescopic forks, sharp steering geometry, and a fully floating 320mm front disc with twin-piston brake caliper in a tubular steel twin-cradle frame.

The Thruxton Challenge is sure to inspire competitors and spectators alike. Triumph Motorcycles will be offering a special rebate program for series competitors. AHRMA license holders purchasing a new Thruxton 900 for this race series will receive an $800 rebate directly from Triumph.

Get ready for close racing action and a truly unique sound as the Thruxton Series gets underway! For more information on this series, please contact Triumph Motorcycles (America), Ltd. at [email protected] or visit AHRMA’s website at www.ahrma.org.

Triumph Motorcycles (America) Ltd., is a wholly owned subsidiary of Triumph Motorcycles, Ltd, a manufacturer of Triumph motorcycles and accessories. Triumph Motorcycles (America) Ltd., is located in Newnan, GA, and services the Triumph dealer organization throughout the United States, Canada and Latin America.

The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association is a member-owned nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the sport of historic motorcycle racing for the enjoyment of riders and spectators. AHRMA is a chartered promoter of the American Motorcyclist Association and conducts amateur activities.